Uniformed Services University

03/26/13

Breakthrough Study Sheds Light on Cell Defense Against Radiation Exposure

New insight into the structural nature of Deinococcus manganese complexes in the world's toughest microbe, Deinococcus radiodurans, gained by using advanced spectroscopy techniques, may ultimately accelerate the development of pharmaceuticals aimed at slowing down the aging process. It may also prevent some severe side effects of radiation therapy and chemotherapy, reduce the chances of skin cancer following exposure to UV rays from the sun, and in the preparation of irradiated vaccines, according to a breakthrough study, "Responses of Mn2+ Speciation in Deinococcus radiodurans and Escherichia coli to -Radiation by Advanced Paramagnetic Resonance Methods," published in the March 25 edition of the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences USA.

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